Lamine Yamal makes history as the youngest player to appear in a European Championship

Spain's Lamine Yamal set a new record on Saturday as the youngest player to participate in a men’s European Championship, taking the field against Croatia at Euro 2024.

At only 16 years and 338 days old, the Barcelona winger surpassed the previous record held by Polish player Kacper Kozlowski, who played in Euro 2020 at the age of 17 years and 246 days.

Should Yamal score during the tournament in Germany, he would also become the youngest goalscorer in Euro history, a title currently held by Johan Vonlanthen of Switzerland for his 2004 goal against France.

Yamal is already noted for being the youngest ever player for Barcelona and the youngest starter in a La Liga match in the 21st century.

“I think he’s so mature and can already make the difference for us,” former Barça head coach Xavi recently told reporters of Yamal. “We have to take care of him, but I think he’s ready and I’m not afraid to trust youth.”